Time off for graduate meant time to create a future – at Gateway

Like many, the COVID-19 pandemic was a life-changer for Allyson Jacobs.

Allyson worked in the restaurant industry since 1997. The pandemic hit her industry hard, though, and she found herself laid off during the quarantine period and for weeks after that as well.

The time off helped Allyson ponder her future and she decided to take the time at home to work toward something productive.

“That time allowed me to wind down and pay attention to my household and myself,” said Allyson. “I realized at some point, I wanted to make good use of all the time off I had. I realized the best way to do that was to go back to college. And I wanted to go to Gateway.”

Out of the classroom for more than 25 years, Allyson was still a little hesitant and wondered what her Gateway experience would be like, considering her lack of computer skills.

“I asked myself whether I could take part in Zoom or go to my classes that way,” says Allyson. “It was hard at first, the work on the computers, but eventually I understood it and I liked it a lot.”

Allyson said it was Gateway’s staff and instructors who helped her navigate college as she earned her Accounting associate degree.

“I appreciate everyone at Gateway,” says Allyson. “They have amazing people in all areas of the college. I don’t think I’ve ever felt as included as I did at Gateway.”

Allyson became involved in Gateway’s United Student Government, which helped her grow as a person and student.

“I was searching for a way to be involved,” said Allyson. “United Student Government helped me to know what was going on at Gateway and we were able to work with and vote on budget requests. I absolutely loved it.”

Allyson spoke at government hearings on improvements to Wisconsin grants, telling lawmakers how their decisions would impact students who had sufficient financial need to receive a grant. In particular, she spoke about the need for the removal of the six-credit minimum requirement, stating that these grants should be open to all who need them.

Gateway helped Allyson to see her future clearly, one where she’s able to use her Accounting degree.

“Gateway helped me believe in myself more than ever before,” says Allyson. “I realize now that anything is possible. I didn’t believe that before – but now I do, because of Gateway.”